1. Kyle Lowry
Kyle Lowry. KLOE (Kyle Lowry Over Everything) for the Raptor fanatics. He is the most important Raptor amongst the starters. When Lowry goes, so does the rest of the squad. This has been the case for pretty much all of Lowry’s tenure as a Raptor.
One thing to keep in mind is how many games and minutes Lowry will play. The Raptors may elect to rest Lowry more often – saving him for important interconference games, and hopefully the playoffs. With new traveling protocols, the Raptors may allow Lowry to stay at “home” in Tampa, while the rest of the team plays their away games.
For the games he does play, the veteran guard should have the same production as the past few years. Putting up good numbers, making hustle plays, as well as igniting the offense and defense. Lowry’s biggest contribution this year will be his mentoring. As he did for Fred VanVleet, so should he do with the newly added rookie, Malachi Flynn.
With his contract ending after the season, this could be the last time we see Lowry in a Raptor jersey. Toronto will have the money to offer Lowry a sizeable contract, but will he want to stay? Will other contending teams persuade him enough to leave the Raptors? Lots of questions to consider. Maybe things will become clearer as the season progresses.
Until that time comes, enjoy Lowry and everything he brings to the Raptors.